Alaskan Malamute

Posted on 22. May, 2009 by admin in American Dog Breeds, Big Dog Breeds, Dog Breeds, Dog Breeds A, Short Coat Dog Breeds, Straight Coat Dog Breeds, Working Dogs

Originally used 2000 to 3000 years ago, the Alaskan Malamute is the oldest of the Nordic dogs. It gets its name from Mahlemuts, a tribe of northwestern Alaska.

He was developed by the nomadic Inuit Indians to haul their possessions over long distances and was highly valued. This large Alaskan dog was built for strength and endurance rather than speed.

Breed Group

Working

Size

22 – 28 inches tall (at shoulder)

Weight

70 – 115 lbs

Color(s)

The usual colors may include various shades of gray to black as well as sables to red, the legs and muzzle nearly always white.

Coat

The Malamutes breed wears a thick double coat of medium length. The outer coat is coarse protecting it from extreme weather and the undercoat is dense, oily and woolly.

Life Expectancy

About 10 – 15 years.

Personality

The Alaskan Malamute makes a loyal, devoted companion, not a “one man” dog, they are certain to make a nice family pet. He does well which children who are old enough to play with him safely. Extremely loyal, affectionate and friendly, the Alaskan Malamute isn’t all work and no play. Males can be very dominant and both sexes can be combative with other dogs. Although very intelligent this calm and quiet dog can prove to be a bit stubborn.

Care

The Alaskan Malamute is a very sturdy breed, however they are prone to hip dysplasia but less then many others large breed. Some are subject to anemia, chondrodysplasia and possible day blindness. Clean and odorless, bathes for this breed really aren’t necessary. The Alaskan Malamute dense coat should be brushed twice a week in the spring, one is enough at other times. In summer make sure they have shade spot and clean cool water because he does not like hot, humid weather.

Training

Although this is not a breed for the first-time dog owner, it is not especially hard to train them to be well-mannered because they are eager to please. Firm handling and obedience training are imperative as well as proper socialization with people and other dogs. The Alaskan Malamute are large and strong working dog bred for sledding and independence, they have participated in many polar expeditions due to their legendary endurance and sense of direction. The Alaskan Malamute are very friendly and therefore are not suitable as a guard dogs.

Activity

Alaskan Malamutes are very active and tireless dogs and are not recommended for apartment life, they prefers largely to pull a sled or a wheeled cart outside all day. Malamutes need a minimum of 2 hours exercise a day, but be careful not to overdue it if the conditions are too hot.

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Tags: alaskan dog, alaskan malamute, dog breed, dog breeds, dogs, working dog